Michael Bede Dunlop Interview | Bede (2026) | UK Jazz Bassist Blends Folk & Contemporary Jazz

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series featuring UK-based jazz bassist, composer, and bandleader Michael Bede Dunlop.In this episode, we dive into Michael's debut album as a leader, Bede (2026)—a beautifully crafted recording that bridges the rich traditions of Northumbrian folk music with the adventurous spirit of Scandinavian-influenced contemporary jazz.Recorded at The Old Church Studios in the quiet village of Thropton, Northumberland, Bede was born from an unexpected period of reflection during the COVID-19 lockdown. Returning to his native Northeast England, Michael immersed himself in centuries-old Northumbrian tune books, initially exploring the melodies for enjoyment before transforming them into fresh, modern jazz compositions performed in an intimate trio and quartet setting.The result is a compelling debut that honors musical heritage while embracing improvisation, lyrical storytelling, and contemporary jazz expression.If you're a fan of modern jazz, European jazz, folk-jazz fusion, contemporary improvisation, and original compositions, this conversation offers an inspiring look into one of the UK's emerging creative voices.Get the album:https://michaelbede.bandcamp.com/If you enjoy interviews with today's leading jazz musicians, composers, and innovators, please subscribe, like, and share for more exclusive conversations from Neon Jazz. For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-joe-dimino/id546432639?mt=2The Home of Neon Jazz: http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/Contribute to Neon Jazz via PayPal:                     https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.